Ever wondered what a P.E.E.R Ranger does on a typical shift? Are you considering sharing your important skills but don't know what is expected? Fear that a shift could be too overwhelming or emotionally taxing on you? Ranger LadySparkles interviewed one of her team members from 2017 about their experience being a specialist Ranger and here's what she said….

What called you to be a P.E.E.R Ranger?

It felt like an obvious choice. I wanted to gift my time in a way that used my strongest skills and experience. I wanted to co-create a safe and respectful space for everyone, and emotionally support anyone who needed it.

How would you describe P.E.E.R Rangers?

PEERS are all qualified and trained professionals who work in the field. It was immensely reassuring knowing that trained people would be available on site, at any hour, purely to offer psychological support to anyone in need.

What was your experience of being a P.E.E.R Ranger like?

I was instantly part of a larger team, all of whom were generous individuals, driven to keep the community safe and protect the environment. My shifts were mostly focused on ranger duties like trying to find a lost child, and working with other rangers to ask a person without a wristband to leave. We all looked after each other and we received a great deal of respect and gratitude for our time. There is no doubt that being a PEER Ranger was an incredibly satisfying and rewarding experience.

Does this sound like you? Have Questions?

What does PEER stand for?

Psychological and Emotional Emergency Response. PEER Rangers provide emotional support on the Paddock for participants who are having an emotional, mental or psychological crisis that goes beyond the capacity of their friends, campmates and Red Earth Rangers.

What is expected of me?

As a PEER ranger you’ll be expected to do at least 2x4 hour shifts (or 1 graveyard shift). You’ll need to attend ranger training and PEER ranger training (both training sessions can be completed onsite) and wear the supplied uniform so you can be recognised. You may be called upon to respond to more serious incidents at the event such as assault, mental health concerns and large scale event emergencies. Although these are rare, they are possible and you must be prepared for events like these. Debriefing is available for any team member who requests it.

How will I be supported?

You will have access to an experienced and qualified Team Lead or 2ic for support with any critical incidents, and work closely with other teams such as experienced veteran rangers, dirt rangers, sanctuary, medical and security. You’ll be provided with a dedicated team area with water, snacks and sunscreen and some extra perks for the graveyard shifts. Being a PEER ranger, you will develop your crisis intervention skills, psychological risk assessment, responding to sexual assault and safety planning skills to your therapeutic tool kit.

What qualifications do I need?

Ideal crew members will have previous medical, mental health, psychological counselling or crisis intervention experience - although your role title will be a ‘Specialist Ranger’ or P.E.E.R Ranger. You will not be expected to operate as or even disclose your profession during your time on the paddock. Experience in sexual assault services, telephone crisis lines, youth work, and emergency services or similar is also valuable. Get in touch to discuss your suitability.

What if this sounds like me but I didn't buy a ticket before the event sold out?

PEER Rangers have a small number of directed tickets available for people who are prepared to commit to the team. These need to be purchased by 12 September 2018 AT THE LATEST.

If you’re keen to put your skills to use, learn some new ones and help support an important and crucial team on the paddock, step up and claim your place on the PEER team here: http://burningseed.com/participate/communitycrew/